What are some plants to use for retaining soil on a slope? Area is the southwestcoast of Canada.?

Question

The backyard of my house slopes down toward a rotting wood retaining wall, and then drops off steeply into a ravine. We have been losing soil down the slope with all the rain we get here. I would like to find out which plants, shrubs, or even trees would be effective at retaining the soil. There is only one bush in the backyard right now, which appears to be some sort of holly. It seems to be retaining the soil around it. The backyard gets very little sun.

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

Kudzu

Answer 2

That steep stuff can be real hard to get things to grab onto.
I would recommend kinnickinnick or salal. They are native.
Some people use ivies and clovers. Some of the lower junipers become dense groundcovers in time. Look around your area and see what groundcovers are thriving. Some have used heathers and heathes , but I wouln't want them on the very steepest, because they spread out on the ground, but their roots are more central.You need something that makes a tight mat and will help hold things together.

Answer 3

Berry Briers (blackberry bushes) are a pain, but they are good for this! There roots go so far deep in the ground!

Only plant I have personally known that could help you in this situation. The should grow where you live....

Answer 4

Pompas grass....

Be Blessed!